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Bowl Leader
Is it easy for engineers to become TPMs?
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Map out a decision matrix with axes for risk vs. reward, and plot both roles. This visual will show if the startup’s potential growth justifies its risk. Reflect on your tolerance for ambiguity and how much uncertainty you can manage day-to-day. You are the only one who can make this decision, but I always think that when we take risks, it's when we learn the most, regardless of the outcome. This is how I made my decision, and I really enjoy learning and wearing a lot of hats that only a startup can give you as experience.
Agree with this!!!
Pro
I made this jump about 18 months ago and it was the best decision. The work is fun and exciting, but it is a bit inconsistent. So I can understand why some may not want to, but I personally love that environment
Pro
Sounds like you thrive in the unpredictability, which is exactly what makes early-stage startups so exciting!
Do you have the kind of standing at work where you can tell your manager that you’re considering taking this big risk - in hopes that they’ll leave the door open for you to come back?
This may be rare, but my brother who was at Google did this. They appreciate startup experience (at least in his area) and told him he’d be welcome to rejoin at the same level or interview for a higher one upon his return, which he did. It made him feel a lot better about taking that risk,
Pro
That’s a great point. I hadn’t really thought about leaving the door open like that. I’m not sure if I have quite the same standing as your brother, but it might be worth feeling out with my manager. Knowing there’s a safety net could definitely make the leap feel less daunting.
Yep, I did the startup thing for a couple of years. Eventually I got burnt out on the lack of structure and consistency, but it was fun for a while. A lot of it depends on the risk you're willing to take and how safe you feel if things go sideways and you need to make a speedy exit.
Pro
Totally get that. I’m excited about the startup’s potential but definitely aware of the risks and uncertainties. I’m still weighing things and trying to figure out if it’s the right fit for me.
Bowl Leader
You’ll be wearing a lot of different hats. And probably working closer to 80-hour weeks. So, you might want to push for higher pay as well as the title. Otherwise you might find yourself working for minimum wage when you divide your pay by the total hours worked.
I would also suggest negotiating your severance /separation pay now. Especially with the equity involved.
Pro
80 hours?! That's intense! Thanks for the advice, especially about negotiating the severance upfront.